Award-winning Darwin Comedy Festival unveils huge 2026 line-up with international headliners
Darwin Comedy Festival returns in March with international star Jonathan Van Ness and The Umbilical Brothers after winning a major tourism award in its debut year. See the full line-up.
The AANT Centre has announced the return of the Darwin Comedy Festival, following the “tremendous success” of its inaugural year.
The festival, which took home the ‘Festivals and Events’ category at the 2025 Brolga NT Tourism Awards, will return for its second year from March 5-7, 2026.
Across three days, audiences will relish in what festival organisers consider to be a “world-class program”, featuring national headliners, viral sensations, rising stars, local legends and fresh Territory talent.
The line-up includes international talent Jonathan Van Ness, the beloved Queer Eye star, best-selling author and podcaster, who will bring his humour to Darwin from the US.
Australia’s internationally acclaimed comedy duo The Umbilical Brothers return with Speedmouse, reviving one of their most celebrated shows.
Giggle and Hoot favourite Jimmy Rees also joins the program, having captivated millions across the country over the years with his sharp-witted characters
Joining them are some of Australia’s finest comedy voices: Em Rusciano; Mel Buttle, a master of whip-smart observational humour; and comedy veteran Akmal.
Denise Scott brings decades of comedic brilliance to the stage, while Lizzy Hoo offers sharp, energetic takes on life’s everyday absurdities.
Kevin Kropinyeri delivers big-hearted storytelling grounded in his Indigenous heritage, and crowd favourites Nat’s What I Reckon and Karen From Finance bring their trademark irreverence.
Representing the Territory, Amy Hetherington returns with her unmistakeable Top End energy, serving up a blend of local stories, tropical mayhem and honest humour.
The festival also shines a spotlight on the next generation, with the RAW Comedy NT Final, Class Clowns, and Top End-made showcases in the Laugh Lounge.
These include the Top Floor Comedy Showcase with Darwin’s Top Floor Comedy, and Hot Nights, Troppo Tales and Pitch Please with artists Sarah Reuben and Danielle Andrews.
AANT Centre chief executive Georgia Hendy said the festival’s growth showed the strength of the Territory’s appetite for live comedy.
“Darwin Comedy Festival burst onto the scene last year and being recognised with a Brolga Award so early in its life is a testament to the passion and hard work of our team, artists and community partners,” she said.
“In 2026, we’re building on that foundation with an even bigger program, more artists, more laughs, and an experience that celebrates both national excellence and Territory creativity.
Major Events Minister Marie-Clare Boothby said Darwin Comedy Festival had quickly established itself as a Territory success story.
“A three-day festival in early March helps drive visitation outside the peak season, supports Territory artists, and fills local restaurants, bars, and hotels at a time businesses really value,” she said.
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Originally published as Award-winning Darwin Comedy Festival unveils huge 2026 line-up with international headliners
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